Photos: Lehmann

05th March 2008

And it appears the design team at the Japanese company has gone for style over load space. The newcomer’s tapered tailgate should look great when it’s finally revealed, although the angled bootlid will eat into luggage capacity.

Despite the disguise, it’s also clear the forthcoming Avensis will get a shapely new front end to replace the dull design of the existing model. Slow sales, plus competition from a host of new arrivals in this class, mean the big Toyota needs to take a significant step forward.

As a result, customers can expect big improvements in terms of cabin quality and handling as the Avensis takes the fight to the latest Ford Mondeo and the forthcoming Vaux­hall Insignia and Honda Accord.

The British-built newcomer isn’t due to hit dealers in this country until 2009, although it could make its official debut at a major motor show towards the end of this year. And Toyota is expected to offer a range of four-door saloon and five-door hatchback bodystyles, in addition to the practical estate.

Engines will be carried over from the existing model, so as well as a variety of petrol options, buyers will be given the choice of the manufacturer’s excellent 2.0 and 2.2-litre D-4D diesel powerplants.

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